(Photo credit: CNN)Press TV
JUN 13, 2026
Iranian officials reported that treating the US president ‘like dealing with a patient’ has already yielded ‘some progress’ in negotiations.
Iranian negotiators hired senior psychologists to vet diplomatic messages for US President Donald Trump during indirect talks between Washington and Tehran, US journalist Jeremy Scahill reported on June 13, citing Iranian sources.
Speaking on the Breaking Points podcast, Scahill said the shift was implemented a few weeks ago as the Iranian delegation believes Trump is “legitimately mentally ill” and “operating in an impaired mental state.”
Negotiators told Scahill the decision was not made with “any lightness” but as a response to what they perceive as a “mentally incapacitated” leader.
After having medical professionals “work up a psychological profile,” the team began to “cater” messages before delivering them to mediators.
This strategy coincides with renewed scrutiny of the President’s health as he celebrates his 80th birthday Sunday.
Earlier reports noted physical symptoms in the president, including hand bruising, swollen ankles, a neck rash, and frequent dozing during cabinet meetings.
Iranian officials reported that treating the interaction “like dealing with a patient” has already yielded “some progress” in negotiations.
Mediating nations, including Qatar and Turkiye, have also reportedly shared concerns regarding the President’s consistency.
The increasing worry about Trump’s mental condition arises as the US narrowly escaped a potentially catastrophic ground invasion of Iran.
CNN revealed on 12 June that senior US military officials nearly approved a risky plan to seize Iranian uranium, with Gen. Dan Caine visiting CENTCOM in May to review invasion plans.
Trump ultimately stopped the plan, allegedly over concerns about provoking strong Iranian retaliation, ongoing escalation, global economic turmoil, and substantial US casualties.
Intelligence warnings also pointed to potential regional repercussions, including the possible closure of the Bab al-Mandab Strait by Yemen.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi revealed on Friday that a proposed memorandum aims to formally end regional war, including in Lebanon, and stressed Iran “will never leave Lebanon alone.” He added that ending the war requires Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanese territories.
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